Surgical
Gastrointestinal Foreign Body Removal in Pets
What is a Gastrointestinal Foreign Body?
A gastrointestinal foreign body is a non-digestible item ingested by an animal that causes problems such as obstruction or blockage somewhere in the digestive tract. At Sydney Animal Hospitals, we commonly see foreign bodies including bones, toys, fur balls, coins, large seeds (like peach pits), underwear, string, and almost anything else an animal can swallow.
Foreign bodies are more common in younger animals who, like toddlers, will taste just about anything. However, they can occur in animals of any age. Dogs, being less discerning about what they eat, tend to experience foreign bodies more frequently. We also see foreign bodies in cats, usually younger ones known to be ravenous eaters.
Clinical Signs of a Gastrointestinal Foreign Body
Common signs that your pet might have ingested a foreign body include:
Nausea (often manifested as drooling or lip-smacking)
Clinical Signs of a Gastrointestinal Foreign Body
Diagnosing a gastrointestinal foreign body can sometimes be challenging. Methods include:
Palpation: Feeling the abdomen may reveal the presence of a foreign body.
X-rays: Sometimes foreign bodies are visible.
Ultrasound: Useful for identifying objects not visible on X-rays.
Surgery: In some cases, particularly with plant material or other objects that don’t show up on imaging studies, foreign bodies are diagnosed during surgical exploration.
Case Study
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Meet Moose
Moose is a young and healthy dog with a penchant for gobbling up underwear and socks as if they were gourmet treats. Unfortunately, his latest escapade resulted in the ingestion of four socks, leading to a series of alarming symptoms and a trip to Sydney Animal Hospitals.
The Crisis Unfolds
Moose’s misadventure began when he vomited up two socks, leaving his owners and our team on edge, wondering about the fate of the remaining pair. Over the next day, Moose exhibited more signs of distress: frequent vomiting, lethargy, and a complete lack of interest in his usual kibble. He even started eating grass and assuming the praying position, indicative of severe abdominal pain.
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Initial Assessment
When Moose was brought in, he was lethargic, not moving much, and showed signs of dehydration. Our initial assessment suggested a bowel obstruction.
Diagnostic and Treatment Plan
We performed radiographs, which revealed a build up of gas and distended loops indicative of a bowel obstruction, along with visible fabric.
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Emergency Surgery on New Year’s Eve
On New Year’s Eve, Dr. Ben and our team performed emergency surgery on Moose to remove the remaining two socks. The surgery was successful, and Moose began his road to recovery.
Post-Surgery and Follow-Up
Moose’s recovery involved careful monitoring and additional treatment.
- Post-surgery, Moose was stable but required close observation and wound care.
- A few days later we checked on Moose, and he was doing well, although he had an issue with a wound opening due to removing his cone. The wound was cleaned, flushed, and re-sutured.
- Moose continued to improve, with his owner slowly transitioning his feeding schedule and keeping the cone on.
- Moose was booked for the removal of sutures from the surgery.
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The Outcome
Thanks to the swift and expert care provided by Dr. Ben and our team, Moose made a full recovery and returned home, feeling much better and sock-free. His owners are now well aware of his penchant for chewing socks and are taking steps to prevent future incidents.
Conclusion
Moose’s case highlights the importance of immediate veterinary attention when pets ingest non-digestible items. If your pet has a taste for the unconventional or ingests something unusual, remember, we’re here for you!
If you suspect your pet has swallowed a foreign object or is showing signs of distress, don’t hesitate to contact Sydney Animal Hospitals for expert care and support.
Conclusion
Moose’s case highlights the importance of immediate veterinary attention when pets ingest non-digestible items. If your pet has a taste for the unconventional or ingests something unusual, remember, we’re here for you!
If you suspect your pet has swallowed a foreign object or is showing signs of distress, don’t hesitate to contact Sydney Animal Hospitals for expert care and support.
Ensure a Smooth Recovery for Your Pet
Our Rapid Recovery Pack is designed to support your pet's healing journey post-surgery. With comprehensive care tailored for a faster, more comfortable recovery, you can rest assured your furry friend is in safe hands. Ask us about how we can help your pet bounce back stronger and healthier.